A Return to Infancy: Old Age and the Second Childhood in History

Abstract

Throughout Western history scholars and writers have characterized old age as a period of a second childhood and childish behavior. The second childhood stereotype has endured and finds expression in numerous works of literature, in a variety of historical contexts including ancient through contemporary times. Explanations for this stereotype were linked to the humoral theory of aging, the perceived and actual dependency of older people for care, dementia, and other ties between childhood and old age. The second childhood was also interpreted as a stage of life where the lifecycle returned to its beginning. The stereotype, while predominantly viewed as negative, may also be viewed in a positive light and underscores the duality and ambiguity that characterized the way older people have been viewed in Western history. The stereotype, while enduring, may have been more prevalent during certain periods, such as those periods when older people were devalued. Cultural representations and more importantly interpretations have also varied within historical context.